A Surprise for Catherine and Abby

* * * * * *

As they walked through the iron gate at the end of their yard, they
both knew that the other didn't want to go in.  Abby was afraid her
Daddy would be mad at them for going to church and Catherine
dreaded the consequences of the harsh, but truthful, words she had
spoken before they had left that morning.  Who knew what kind
of mood he'd be in now?

The door creaked as they opened it.  As they walked into the foyer,
they looked at each other with two very large, beautiful smiles.
Could it be?  Was that the aroma of turkey and dressing and, yes,
pumpkin pie?  What in the world?  They both ran to the
kitchen and found Mr. Joseph Turner wearing an apron and mittens,
carrying a deliciously basted turkey to the dining room.  The table
was donned with holly and candles and trimmings fit for a king.
And in Catherine's mind, it was for the King.

"Merry Christmas, my love, Merry Christmas, my little princess!"
He led them to the table where they enjoyed the most wonderful
Christmas dinner ever. Catherine's praises poured toward Heaven
the entire meal.  Her husband seemed to be back to normal. But
she also felt a little sadness, too.  She knew that he didn't know
Jesus Christ as his Savior and the reason for this joyous season.
He just wouldn't believe "Such Nonsense!",
he had said too many times. But she rejoiced and praised
God for his change of heart. It was truly a blessing for them all.

"And now, for the big surprise!" 
Joseph took each of his ladies by their hands. "Close your eyes. Come
on, do it. Close them and no peeking!"  His hands were warm
and kind. Both Catherine and Abby were glad to have him
so near and so loving.

"SURPRISE!"

Abby jumped up and down, laughing and screaming with joy. 
They both found the stockings packed with a mixture of candy
canes, ribbons, and lovely trinkets. The tree was lit with strings
of glimmering lights and silver tinsel.  The gold paper on the
gifts sparkled with green, red and blue ribbons.
They were all nestled snugly beneath the tree just
waiting for Abby and Catherine.

What a surprise indeed!